Overlooking a child's basic needs is referred to as what type of abuse?

Overlooking a child's basic needs is classified as neglect. Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide necessary care and support for a child, which can include food, clothing, shelter, education, medical care, and emotional support. This form of abuse can severely affect a child's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, as their fundamental requirements for development are not being met.

In contrast, physical abuse involves inflicting bodily harm or physical injury, which directly impacts the child's physical health. Emotional abuse refers to behaviors that harm a child's self-worth or emotional well-being, often through criticism, rejection, or isolation. Sexual exploitation involves the abuse of a child in a sexual context, which is a different and serious issue. Recognizing neglect as a distinct form of child abuse emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all of a child's basic needs are adequately met for their overall development and safety.